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In episode five of Biblical Help for Life's Problems, Dr. John Snyder is once again joined by pastor and counselor Louis Sacran. Drawing on Romans 13:14, Louis helps us understand sanctification biblically and practically. How do we grow and change as believers? How do we mature? We must understand the inner workings of our hearts (our desires) and our walk (our actions), and how they are connected. John and Louis tackle the topic of sexual sin. What is at the root of it, and how can I break the chains of enslavement to this sin? John and Louis point us back to the gospel and to our Lord Jesus. Being aware of what we have been given in Christ and of our unshakable standing with Him because of His righteousness is foundational to growing in Christlikeness.
Todd examines Texas Senate candidate James Talarico's claim that capitalism, white supremacy, and climate change are linked oppressive systems that must be dismantled. He contrasts that worldview with free enterprise, voluntary exchange, property rights, innovation, and the biblical calling to create and build, arguing that socialism—not capitalism—uses government power to take freedom and the fruits of people's labor. Todd also challenges Talarico's progressive-Christian claims about God, gender, abortion, and Christlikeness, and explains why the battle over liberty, faith, and America's founding principles remains central to the 2026 election.
Romans 12:1–2 teaches that the Christian life begins with the mercy of God and calls believers to offer their whole lives to Him in worship. Dave Jenkins explains why Christians must not be shaped by the values of the world, but transformed through the ongoing renewal of their minds by God's Word. This episode considers biblical discernment, the authority and sufficiency of Scripture, and how believers grow in Christlikeness through the gospel. For more from Anchored in the Word, please visit: https://servantsofgrace.org/anchored-in-the-wordpage/
You long to flourish in intimacy with Jesus. Your heart is to love God and others more like him. But let's be honest — the path to growing in Christlikeness often doesn't match our ideals. Spiritual disciplines become dry, we wonder if we're making progress, and we get exhausted trying to figure out what we need. Tune in for this episode of Soul Talks as Bill and Kristi reveal the key to accessing God's grace right where you are. You don't have to keep trying harder at what's no longer working. Their unique model for growth (the CHRIST Stages) will help you understand where you are in your spiritual and emotional development — and what your soul needs to keep moving forward with Jesus. Resources for this Episode Take the Free Spiritual Formation Stages Assessment Journey of the Soul: A Practical Guide to Emotional and Spiritual Growth Attend a Soul Shepherding Retreat Donate to Support Soul Shepherding and Soul Talks
Speaker: Rob BerrethScripture: Matthew 9:14-17Episode Overview:Jesus confronts a deeply rooted misunderstanding about the Christian life: the idea that God's acceptance rises and falls with our spiritual performance. In Matthew 9:14-17, He reveals that His coming brings something radically new—a life grounded not in religious achievement, but in grace. As the Bridegroom, Jesus invites His people into the joy of knowing Him rather than striving to earn what He freely gives.This does not mean that practices like prayer, fasting, Scripture reading, worship, and serving have no place in the Christian life. When rightly understood, they become means of grace—ways of placing ourselves before God to know Him, enjoy Him, and grow in Christlikeness. The difference is found in why we do them: not to secure God's favor, but because we already belong to Christ.Key Highlights:• Why religious performance can never make us right with God• What Jesus means when He identifies Himself as the Bridegroom• The difference between “I obey, therefore I'm accepted” and “I'm accepted, therefore I obey”• Why the gospel frees us from both pride on our good days and despair on our bad days• How spiritual practices can deepen our joy in Christ without becoming legalism• Why the ultimate purpose of every spiritual discipline is knowing and enjoying JesusCall to Action:Take an honest look at the spiritual practices in your life. Are you using them to prove yourself to God, or are you receiving them as gifts that draw you closer to Christ? Whether you pray, read Scripture, fast, serve, or worship, come with empty hands. Rest in the grace already given to you in Jesus, and then gladly place yourself in the pathways where you can know and enjoy Him more.Redeemer Church211 Northshore Dr. Bellingham, WA 98226www.redeemernw.org
Vision Series: Theological IntegrationAugust 30, 2026 • RD McClenagan • Romans 12:2In the fourth week of our vision series God Has More, RD McClenagan introduces Fellowship's value of theological integration—the conviction that what we believe about God should shape how we think, feel, and live. Because everyone has beliefs about God that influence their lives, mature discipleship requires holding together sound doctrine, transformed affections, and faithful action rather than separating what we know from how we live. Drawing from Paul's instruction to Timothy to watch both his life and doctrine closely, RD encourages believers to spend time prayerfully reflecting on God's Word and depending on the Holy Spirit so that truth moves beyond information and becomes deeply rooted in the heart. True theological integration means allowing what we know to be true about God to shape our everyday responses while embracing the whole counsel of God rather than emphasizing only the parts of the Christian life we naturally gravitate toward. Ultimately, growing in theology should lead us toward greater humility, love for God and neighbor, the fruit of the Spirit, worship, and increasing Christlikeness as our lives become more consistent with the truths we profess.GOD HAS MORE PODCAST: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLRUh2XoKC-RcWEBSITE: https://fellowshipknox.org/INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/fellowshipknox/
At Redeemer, we take seriously Jesus' call to "Go and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." Apprenticeship to Jesus is not a one time decision, but a lifelong journey of following Jesus as our master-teacher. Since the goal of the Christian life is maturity in Jesus, apprenticeship must be deep and holistic, transforming the spiritual, physical, emotional, social, and vocational parts of men and women. Apprenticeship to Jesus is learning to practice the way of Jesus in our homes, relationships, neighborhoods, and jobs. We believe Christlikeness is cultivated as we implement spiritual practices, live in community with other believers, and submit to the Word and the Spirit. We agree with Dallas Willard who said, "that the gospel is opposed to earning, not effort." As we move towards cultivating a life of loving God and people, we trust Christ will mature us into his likeness. https://redeemerwichita.church/
God's purpose is not merely for every believer to know about Jesus, but that we would increasingly become like Him. Today, we will see that, as we behold Jesus, the Spirit frees us and transforms us into His likeness.
The sermon exhorts believers to actively pursue spiritual maturity rather than remaining in a state of childish instability. Drawing from Ephesians 4:13-16, the text defines perfection as completeness and Christlikeness achieved through knowledge of God. It highlights three key outcomes of this growth: stability against false doctrine, the practice of speaking truth in love, and increased productivity within the church body. The message challenges individuals to evaluate their spiritual progress and contribute their unique gifts to edify others. Ultimately, the goal is for every member to function effectively together, reflecting the fullness of Christ.
Vision Series: The Truth & Story of the BibleAugust 23, 2026 • RD McClenagan • John 17:17On the third Sunday of the vision series God Has More, RD McClenagan introduces Fellowship's first value: to be a people devoted to and shaped by the truth and story of the Bible. Scripture is not simply a source of information or instruction, but God's living and active Word that reveals who He is, transforms us, and sanctifies us as we grow in Christlikeness. The Bible is one cohesive story of God's pursuit of His people, ultimately centered on Jesus, and reading it rightly means allowing that story to shape how we understand God, ourselves, and the world around us. Because God's Word is true and trustworthy, believers can anchor themselves in its promises through suffering, uncertainty, and the shifting circumstances of life, calling His faithfulness to mind even when what they see feels overwhelming. As we continually read, meditate on, pray through, and store Scripture in our hearts, God uses His Word to revive our souls, reshape our lives, deepen our love for Him, and mature us into the people He has called us to be. GOD HAS MORE PODCAST: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLRUh2XoKC-RcWEBSITE: https://fellowshipknox.org/INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/fellowshipknox/
At Redeemer, we take seriously Jesus' call to "Go and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." Apprenticeship to Jesus is not a one time decision, but a lifelong journey of following Jesus as our master-teacher. Since the goal of the Christian life is maturity in Jesus, apprenticeship must be deep and holistic, transforming the spiritual, physical, emotional, social, and vocational parts of men and women. Apprenticeship to Jesus is learning to practice the way of Jesus in our homes, relationships, neighborhoods, and jobs. We believe Christlikeness is cultivated as we implement spiritual practices, live in community with other believers, and submit to the Word and the Spirit. We agree with Dallas Willard who said, "that the gospel is opposed to earning, not effort." As we move towards cultivating a life of loving God and people, we trust Christ will mature us into his likeness. https://redeemerwichita.church/
Hebrews 4:12 describes the Word of God as alive and active, sharper than any double-edged sword. Scripture is far more than ink on a page—it carries God's authority, power, will, and Truth, producing fruit and transforming the lives of those who receive it. In today's episode of the MY Devotional Podcast, Dr. Michael Youssef compares the penetrating power of Scripture to a surgeon's scalpel. In unskilled hands, a blade can wound. But in the hands of a gifted surgeon, that same blade becomes an instrument of healing. When we approach the Bible with humble, open hearts, we place ourselves in the hands of the Master Surgeon. God's Word reaches into the deepest recesses of our souls, exposing hidden attitudes, motives, and sins that need to be confronted. Nothing remains concealed from the One who knows us completely. But God does not expose our sin simply to leave us wounded. Like the Great Physician, He removes what is destructive and restores what is broken. Even when the Truth cuts deeply, His purpose is our good—bringing repentance, freedom, and greater Christlikeness. Come to Scripture ready for God to work. Trust the Surgeon who knows precisely where healing is needed, and allow His living Word to transform you from the inside out. The voice you hear on the MY Devotional podcast is digitally generated with Dr. Youssef's permission. If today's devotional stirred a question, burden, or need for prayer, you don't have to walk through it alone.
At Redeemer, we take seriously Jesus' call to "Go and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." Apprenticeship to Jesus is not a one time decision, but a lifelong journey of following Jesus as our master-teacher. Since the goal of the Christian life is maturity in Jesus, apprenticeship must be deep and holistic, transforming the spiritual, physical, emotional, social, and vocational parts of men and women. Apprenticeship to Jesus is learning to practice the way of Jesus in our homes, relationships, neighborhoods, and jobs. We believe Christlikeness is cultivated as we implement spiritual practices, live in community with other believers, and submit to the Word and the Spirit. We agree with Dallas Willard who said, "that the gospel is opposed to earning, not effort." As we move towards cultivating a life of loving God and people, we trust Christ will mature us into his likeness. https://redeemerwichita.church/
Emily Rose Massey explores biblical marriage, selflessness, forgiveness, and Christ-centered love, reminding us that marriage is one of the ways God shapes us to become more like Jesus. Through Philippians 2:3-5, we are encouraged to look beyond our own desires and consider the needs of others. Marriage reveals areas of selfishness while creating opportunities to practice humility, grace, and forgiveness. Rather than viewing marriage as a limitation, Scripture shows us that it is a gift God uses to transform our hearts and teach us how to love sacrificially. Highlights: Discover how marriage reflects Christ’s sacrificial love for the Church. Learn why humility and selflessness are essential for a healthy marriage. Understand how God uses marriage to reveal and transform selfishness in our hearts. Be encouraged to extend forgiveness and grace to your spouse. Explore how God’s grace empowers us to grow in Christlikeness. See marriage as an opportunity to reflect Jesus through love and sacrifice. Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Finding the Sacrificial Beauty in Marriage By: Emily Rose Massey Bible Reading: “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 2:3-5, ESV). Summertime in America is marked by so many celebrations and wonderful holidays: graduation parties, Memorial Day, Father’s Day, Independence Day, lots of pool days and BBQs with friends and family, and of course, weddings upon weddings! I’m sure you know at least one couple who is getting married this summer or who at least celebrate their anniversary in June, July, or August. It is truly a very popular time of year to get married– so much so that many people call it “wedding season.” I guess my husband and I wanted to go against the norm, as we so often do, and went to the opposite end of the calendar and got married in December. I truly look forward to celebrating with loved ones who “tie the knot” during this season. Almost 20 years later, I still get choked up witnessing someone else’s “big day.” Weddings are so lovely and fun, but they clearly represent something so much more important and beautiful that the Lord has providentially ordained that we should give our attention to outside of that one special day: marriage. The union of marriage is so important to God that His word equates it to the love that Christ has for the church, His Bride (Ephesians 5:22-33). Reflecting upon that kind of love that Christ has for His own, two words come to mind: humble and sacrificial. Christ modeled this kind of love and asks husbands and wives to walk in His footsteps. These verses in Philippians 2 capture this selflessness that we should long to foster in our homes and marriages: “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 2:3-5, ESV). Intersecting Faith & Life: I have had two situations within the last handful of months where women who were much older than me (women I should be gleaning wisdom from) painted marriage in such a terrible light and boasted in their divorces and singleness. It truly made my heart heavy that because of their personal experiences, they could not see the beauty in marriage. When they should see it as a gift from God to sanctify us and make us less selfish and more others-focused, they saw it as bondage, keeping them from living their own life freely. As Christ followers, if we want a right view of marriage, we must look to the scriptures. We cannot rely on others’ experiences or even our own to determine what God says on a matter. The more we dive into His word, our naturally selfish minds are renewed to love sacrificially as He does, extending the same grace and mercy we have received from Him to others. The word transforms us from the inside out, all for the better, and we begin to see the fruit of the Spirit (see Galatians 5:22-23) develop and mature in our lives, which we need to fully love others in humility and sacrifice, preferring them above ourselves. What happens when our spouse hurts us? Because we have been forgiven through the cross of Jesus Christ, we must forgive others. We have received such great mercy; therefore, we must extend that same mercy to our spouse, even if they have wronged us or offended us. When we are quick to apologize because of humility and choosing the other person over ourselves, our hearts are free of bitterness, pride, and selfishness. None of us are made of that; God gives us the grace to do that. Many people would define grace as “unmerited favor” to the undeserving, especially in terms of salvation, which is true, but it doesn’t stop there- it is God’s power to conform us into the image of Christ, and God uses marriage to make us humble and sacrificial. This grace that strengthens us and trains us is what we experience in the majority of our Christian walk: in faith and obedience, with each step, we grow in holiness and Christlikeness, day by day. Truthfully, marriage gives us countless opportunities to reflect Christ by laying down our lives for our spouse, in humility and sacrifice. Oh, how beautiful! Further Reading: Ephesians 5:22-33 John 13:34-35 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
What does it mean to be a godly man in today's culture? And how should Christian men understand masculinity, marriage, fatherhood, leadership, and their identity in Christ?In this episode of the Bible and Theology Matters Podcast, Dr. Paul D. Weaver sits down with Paul Pettit, author of A Courageous Identity: Accepting the Call of Christ-Centered Masculinity, to discuss what biblical manhood looks like and how Christian men can pursue Christ-centered masculinity in a culture with competing visions of what it means to be a man.Dr. Pettit draws from Scripture, his years of mentoring young men, his work with fathers and husbands, and his experience teaching seminary students to explain why biblical masculinity is not about domination, passivity, or perfection—but about servant leadership, responsibility, courage, sacrifice, and Christlikeness.Together, they discuss:What Christ-centered masculinity actually meansThe difference between biblical masculinity and the world's competing views of manhoodHow Christian men should think about authority and servant leadershipWhy husbands are called to love their wives as Christ loved the churchBiblical roles and responsibilities within marriage and the familyWhy men must reject passivity and accept responsibilityHow fathers can model godly leadership for their sons and daughtersWhy becoming a godly man is about daily progress rather than perfectionThe importance of spiritual habits, Scripture, worship, and consistent investment in familyWhat biblical courage looks like in a culture increasingly opposed to Christian convictionsCommon struggles facing young men, including loneliness, pornography, drinking, vaping, and online gamblingHow men can overcome destructive patterns and unhealthy models of manhoodWhy it's never too late to become a better husband or fatherBreaking unhealthy generational patterns and leaving a better legacyWhy Christian men need brotherhood, mentorship, and accountabilityThe importance of having a "Paul," a "Barnabas," and a "Timothy" in our livesRather than pursuing perfection, Pettit encourages men to pursue Christlikeness—growing through daily habits, dependence on Christ, the work of the Holy Spirit, God's Word, and relationships with other believers.Whether you're a husband, father, young man, pastor, mentor, or someone seeking to better understand biblical manhood and Christian masculinity, this conversation offers a practical and Scripture-centered framework for thinking about what it means to live as a man of courage and conviction.Dynamic Dadshttps://dynamicdads.org/ Dynamic Dads is a nonprofit organization founded by Dr. Paul Pettit that equips and encourages fathers to become more intentional, involved, and Christ-centered leaders in their homes.
Holiness is not a way for Christians to earn God's acceptance. It is the fruit of God's saving and transforming grace. In this episode of Anchored in the Word, Dave Jenkins explains why holiness is essential for Christian living. He considers what it means to be set apart for God, why holiness must be distinguished from legalism, and how believers grow in Christlikeness through Scripture, repentance, obedience, and the work of the Holy Spirit. The pursuit of holiness flows from salvation rather than leading to salvation. The same Savior who justifies His people is also sanctifying them. For more from Anchored in the Word, please visit: https://servantsofgrace.org/anchored-in-the-wordpage/
Holiness is not a way for Christians to earn God's acceptance. It is the fruit of God's saving and transforming grace. In this episode of Anchored in the Word, Dave Jenkins explains why holiness is essential for Christian living. He considers what it means to be set apart for God, why holiness must be distinguished from legalism, and how believers grow in Christlikeness through Scripture, repentance, obedience, and the work of the Holy Spirit. The pursuit of holiness flows from salvation rather than leading to salvation. The same Savior who justifies His people is also sanctifying them. For more from Anchored in the Word, please visit: https://servantsofgrace.org/anchored-in-the-wordpage/
Humility is required in order to seek Christlikeness and destroy our flesh.
Holiness Is Essential for Christian Living By Dave Jenkins Holiness is not a way for Christians to earn God's acceptance. It is the fruit of belonging to Christ and being transformed by His grace. In this episode of Anchored in the Word, Dave Jenkins explains why holiness is essential for Christian living, what it means to be set apart for God, and why the pursuit of holiness flows from salvation rather than leading to salvation. Many Christians hear the word holiness and immediately think about rules, restrictions, or a list of things they should avoid. Scripture presents holiness much differently. God calls His people to reflect His character, grow in Christlikeness, and pursue faithful obedience through the transforming work of the Holy Spirit. Listen or Watch Holiness Flows From Salvation First Peter 1:15–16 says: “But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, ‘You shall be holy, for I am holy.'” Peter does not tell Christians to pursue holiness so that God will accept them. Instead, believers pursue holiness because God has already called and saved them. Christians are saved by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone, but the same grace that saves also transforms. Holiness is therefore not the basis of salvation. It is the fruit of genuine conversion and part of God's work of conforming His people to the image of His Son. What Biblical Holiness Means At its heart, holiness means being set apart for God. God Himself is perfectly holy, completely separate from sin, and morally perfect in every way. Because Christians belong to Him, they are called to live lives that increasingly reflect His character. This does not mean Christians attain sinless perfection in this life. Rather, holiness describes the direction of the Christian life as believers grow in obedience, repentance, and likeness to Christ. Holiness Is Not Legalism Biblical holiness and legalism are not the same thing. Legalism attempts to earn God's favor through human effort. Biblical holiness flows from God's favor already given through Jesus Christ. Grace does not remove the need for holiness. Grace produces holiness. The gospel not only forgives sinners but also transforms them. Hebrews 12:14 calls Christians to “strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.” Romans 12:1–2 calls believers to present themselves as living sacrifices and to be transformed by the renewing of their minds. Second Corinthians 7:1 likewise urges Christians to pursue holiness in the fear of God. How Christians Pursue Holiness Christians pursue holiness by remaining rooted in the gospel and dependent upon the grace of God. Begin with the gospel. No one can grow in true holiness apart from Jesus Christ. Spend consistent time in the Word of God. The Holy Spirit uses Scripture to shape, renew, and transform believers. Practice daily repentance. Growth in holiness does not mean never sinning. It means continually turning away from sin and toward Christ. Pursue faithful obedience. God uses ordinary, ongoing obedience as an important means of sanctification. Holiness Is Rooted in Union With Christ Ultimately, holiness is rooted in the believer's union with Jesus Christ. Jesus lived the perfectly holy life sinners could never live, died for their sins, and rose again to secure their salvation. Those who are united to Christ by faith are not only forgiven. They are also being transformed. The same Savior who justifies His people is also sanctifying them. Holiness is not the way Christians earn God's acceptance. It is evidence that they belong to Him. Listen to More Anchored in the Word Anchored in the Word is a weekly segment of the Servants of Grace podcast devoted to helping Christians stay rooted in Scripture, grow in sound doctrine, and live faithfully before Christ. Explore Anchored in the Word Listen to More Episodes
True Biblical Worship vs. Strange Fire: What Does God Really Want? | KIB 543 DESCRIPTION Welcome to Kingdom Intelligence Briefing Episode #543 with Dr. Michael Lake and Mary Lou Lake. What does God actually desire from those who worship Him? Modern Christianity often defines worship primarily through music, singing, emotional experiences, and church services. But Scripture presents something far deeper. True biblical worship is not merely an event we attend—it is a covenant lifestyle of reverence, obedience, holiness, truth, thanksgiving, humility, service, repentance, and wholehearted devotion to God. In this episode, Dr. Michael Lake examines the biblical theology of worship from both the Old and New Testaments. Psalm 24 reveals the necessity of clean hands and a pure heart, while Jesus declares that the Father is seeking those who will worship Him "in spirit and truth." This teaching also confronts a serious problem within modern Christianity: worship can become religious performance while the believer's daily life remains disconnected from God. Scripture reveals that obedience itself is worship. Holiness is worship. Serving others can become worship. Thanksgiving is worship. Repentance restores true fellowship with God. Even studying Scripture to discover what pleases God becomes an expression of devotion to Him. Dr. Lake also examines Cain, Nadab and Abihu, Saul, Uzziah, and Israel's golden calf to demonstrate a sobering biblical principle: sincerity does not give humanity the authority to redefine worship. God determines how He is to be worshiped. The episode concludes with a warning that much of contemporary worship risks producing "strange fire" rather than Christlikeness—and a call for the Remnant to return to worship that transforms the worshiper and exalts God alone. IN THIS EPISODE: • Why worship is a lifestyle rather than an event • What it means to worship God in spirit and truth • The Hebrew and Greek concepts behind biblical worship • Why obedience is an act of worship • Why God requires holiness from His worshipers • The relationship between thanksgiving, praise, and worship • Why biblical study itself can become an act of devotion • How religious performance can replace genuine worship • Why worship must remain God-centered rather than man-centered • Cain, Nadab and Abihu, Saul, Uzziah, and unauthorized worship • The danger of "strange fire" in the modern Church • How true worship produces transformation and Christlikeness • Why worship and obedience are powerful components of spiritual warfare Mary Lou also discusses prayer, spiritual warfare, and the importance of recognizing that the heavens belong to Almighty God—not the powers of darkness. The episode opens with a call for believers to respond to spiritual opposition by declaring biblical truth and magnifying the Creator rather than fearing the enemy. If this teaching strengthens your walk with God, please: Subscribe to Biblical Life TV Like this video Share it with someone who desires deeper biblical worship Leave a comment telling us what God has been teaching you about worship Download the teaching notes and study these principles for yourself. Visit Kingdom Intelligence Briefing for additional teachings and resources. https://www.kingdomintelligencebriefing.com Thank you to our faithful partners around the world who make Biblical Life TV possible. Preparing the Remnant to stand firmly upon the Word of God and fulfill His purposes in the last days. TIMELINE 00:00 – Opening: Preparing the Remnant 01:29 – Welcome to KIB Episode #543 01:55 – Mary Lou: Spiritual warfare and the August 12 heavenly events 05:00 – Declaring God as Creator over occult counterfeits 08:30 – Prayer, spiritual attacks, and recognizing enemy strategies 15:01 – A powerful testimony of thanksgiving after losing a job 16:14 – Realigning believers with biblical worship and prayer 17:20 – Concerns about digital Bibles and preserving physical copies 20:00 – True biblical worship: A lifestyle, not an event 20:45 – Psalm 24: Clean hands and a pure heart 23:00 – Worshiping God in spirit and truth 26:32 – The question every worshiper should ask: What does God want? 27:30 – Hebrew and Greek meanings of worship 30:00 – Biblical study as an expression of worship 31:30 – Isaiah 29: Lip service versus heart devotion 34:00 – Religious performance and modern worship culture 36:00 – Spirit and truth: Avoiding emotionalism and dead religion 38:23 – The Psalms as the prayer book and hymnal of God's people 39:30 – Obedience is better than sacrifice 41:19 – Why the Old Testament provides essential biblical definitions 42:18 – God desires holiness 43:15 – Cover-up culture and accountability in Christian ministry 44:45 – Worship with reverence and godly fear 46:35 – Thanksgiving as worship 48:11 – Worship, obedience, and spiritual warfare 49:11 – Worship as preparation for hearing from God 52:30 – Praise must remain God-centered 54:38 – God desires humility 55:59 – Repentance, love, justice, and mercy 57:30 – Becoming a living sacrifice 59:05 – Why Sunday worship cannot compensate for an ungodly week 1:01:00 – Good works, generosity, and worship through service 1:02:46 – Christ-centered worship 1:03:20 – Cain, Nadab and Abihu, Saul, Uzziah, and the golden calf 1:04:41 – God determines how He is worshiped 1:05:15 – True worship produces transformation 1:06:15 – Strange fire in modern Christianity 1:07:05 – Worship must honor God rather than entertain us 1:09:10 – Closing prayer: Becoming true worshipers 1:09:47 – Biblical Life TV closing HASHTAGS #BiblicalWorship #TrueWorship #StrangeFire #SpiritAndTruth #BiblicalLifeTV #KingdomIntelligenceBriefing #SpiritualWarfare #Holiness #ChristianWorship #BibleStudy #Remnant #MichaelLake
Are you dealing with your character or just getting more discreet? This weekend Pastor Steve Andres continued our MOSES series with a message about the cost of character.Numbers 20:11-12Then Moses raised his arm and struck the rock twice with his staff. Water gushed out, and the community and their livestock drank. But the Lord said to Moses and Aaron, “Because you did not trust in me enough to honor me as holy in the sight of the Israelites, you will not bring this community into the land I give them.”Moses' life serves as an encouragement and warning to all of us. His successes and failures can teach us about how we can faithfully live out God's purposes for our lives. What does this story teach us?1) Your CHARACTER counts.If we look at the story of Moses' life, we can see anger is a persistent and unresolved issue. Character flaws will remain in our lives when we choose to hide them instead of addressing them. There is no healing in hiding.Moses' crazy, rock-striking anger comes because he values his own leadership and the people's respect more than obedience to God. He reacts in a way that diminishes God in front of the people, and God declares a judgment over Moses that he will not personally enter the promised land. 2) Your CALLING is not your healing.The scariest part of the story is that even though Moses was wrong to strike the rock, God still caused the water to flow. Don't make the mistake of thinking that your gifting and calling is the same as God's approval. Gifting can provide validation, but it won't produce transformation.3) CHRIST is the pattern for our lives.Anger can reveal so much about what we love. God's plan and purpose is to grow us up to love what He loves, in the way the He loves. It's easier to act like a Christian than to react like a Christian.Pastor Mark BattersonGod does not call you to greatness; He calls you to Christlikeness. He calls you to the humility and meekness and love and righteousness of Jesus. And He has promised to help you!Philippians 2:13For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.
When trials hit, our immediate reaction is often to ask God, "How do I get out of this?" But what if God is asking, "What can I produce through this?" In Week 2 of our The Good Life series, Pastor Dave Mudd delivers a powerful and practical message on James 1:1–4, exploring what it truly means to suffer well. Discover how choosing complete surrender over mere survival can transform your trials into spiritual maturity, deep faith, and true Christlikeness. If you are navigating a difficult season, this message will equip you to stop asking God to make your life easier and start trusting Him to make your heart holier.Key Takeaways from This Message:• Transform Your Perspective on Hardship: Learn why James calls us to "consider it pure joy" during trials—not by denying pain, but by recognizing God's active work in it.• Shift From Escape to Redemption: Discover the power of asking "Lord, redeem this" instead of "Lord, remove this" when facing life's toughest storms.• Build Unshakable Faith & Character: Understand how allowing perseverance to finish its work forms spiritual maturity, completeness, and peace that circumstances can't touch.• Refuse to Waste Your Pain: Practical steps to stop circulating in the same trials by asking God "What are You teaching me?" rather than "Why me?"• Actionable Ways to Walk Through Trials: Learn why leaning into church community, worship, prayer, and Scripture during hard times keeps bitterness from taking root.
At Redeemer, we take seriously Jesus' call to "Go and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." Apprenticeship to Jesus is not a one time decision, but a lifelong journey of following Jesus as our master-teacher. Since the goal of the Christian life is maturity in Jesus, apprenticeship must be deep and holistic, transforming the spiritual, physical, emotional, social, and vocational parts of men and women. Apprenticeship to Jesus is learning to practice the way of Jesus in our homes, relationships, neighborhoods, and jobs. We believe Christlikeness is cultivated as we implement spiritual practices, live in community with other believers, and submit to the Word and the Spirit. We agree with Dallas Willard who said, "that the gospel is opposed to earning, not effort." As we move towards cultivating a life of loving God and people, we trust Christ will mature us into his likeness. https://redeemerwichita.church/
Philippians 2:12-13Rev. Ron Thomas
Send us Fan MailRomans 8 isn't meant to leave you guessing about where you stand with God. We open the Bible and follow Paul's chain from foreknowledge to predestination, then to calling, justification, and glorification, and we treat it like it's actually saying something solid. Foreknowledge is not framed as God peeking into the future to see who behaves, but as God's intimate love set on his people before the foundation of the world. If that's true, the comfort is immediate: nothing can separate the Christian from that love.From there we tackle predestination head-on, not as a debate tactic, but as a doctrine of assurance of salvation. We talk about why the natural mind resists it, why so many pulpits avoid it, and why we think that avoidance costs people peace. Then we press the purpose Paul gives in Romans 8:29: God predestines his people to be conformed to the image of his Son. That means your salvation is not a conditional arrangement where you keep yourself saved by maintaining a certain level of performance.We also connect the dots to Ephesians 2:10, where believers are called God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works that God ordained beforehand. We dig into what that implies about sanctification, providence, and the slow, painful, real-life process of being shaped into Christlikeness, all moving toward glorification and ultimately God's glory.If you want a clear, Bible-driven case for eternal security, predestination, and why your trials aren't random, hit play. Subscribe, share this with a friend who's wrestling with assurance, and leave a review with the question you still want answered.Support the showBE PROVOKED AND BE PERSUADED!
God's Word is filled with promises of His care, provision, and faithfulness. Yet when life suddenly turns for the worse, it can be easy to wonder, “Is this really part of God's plan for me?” In today's episode of the MY Devotional Podcast, Dr. Michael Youssef encourages believers not to abandon faith when suffering, disappointment, or sorrow arrives. A difficult season does not necessarily mean you have done something wrong or that God is displeased with you. Instead, hardship can become an opportunity for the Lord to do something amazing in your life for His glory. God's ultimate purpose is not merely to make life easier, but to transform His children into the likeness of Christ. Dr. Youssef reminds us that faith opens the door for God to work in impossible ways. Unbelief can cause us to miss what God is doing, but trust in His character and promises allows us to experience His changing power—even in circumstances we would never have chosen. In seasons of suffering and sorrow, cling to Christ. Return to His Word. Remember that God works all things for the good of those who love Him, and rejoice that in Christ, all things—life, death, the present, and the future—belong to you because you belong to Him. Prayer: Lord, help me to remain steadfast in my faith in You today, rejoicing in Your goodness and sure promises. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen. “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see” (Hebrews 11:1). Learn more in Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon series They Were Just like Us: LISTEN NOW The voice you hear on the MY Devotional podcast is digitally generated with Dr. Youssef's permission. If today's devotional stirred a question, burden, or need for prayer, you don't have to walk through it alone.
Maps can be helpful in seeing a larger landscape. They help answer relevant questions such as "Where are we?", "Where am I going?", "What might I expect along the journey?". In this episode of Breaking Bread, Isaac Funk and Arlan Miller have a conversation about six movements along the path of spiritual growth. They give us a map to help us understand what growth in Christ looks like. Show notes: We never fully graduate from these movements, nor are they strictly linear. We visit and revisit them through the course of our lives as we grow in Christlikeness. Movement 1 – Abiding in Jesus: Attachment Formation Movement 2 – Growing in God's Family: Belonging Formation Movement 3 – Training in Christlikeness: Practice Formation Movement 4 – Joining in God's Work: Vocation Formation Movement 5 – Being Formed in the Heart: Inner Formation Movement 6 – Walking in the Spirit: Responsiveness Formation
In This Episode, We Cover:Why spiritual authority begins with consecration and a deeper relationship with Jesus. The three marks of discipleship: being with Jesus, becoming like Jesus, and doing what Jesus did. The danger of seeking influence, titles, and recognition instead of pursuing Christlikeness. How Jesus redefined greatness through service, submission, and humility. Why God entrusts spiritual authority to people with servant hearts. Key Moments3:19 — “Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do amazing things among you.” 6:18 — Jesus promises that believers will do the works He did—and even greater works. 9:12 — The threefold call of discipleship: be with Jesus, become like Jesus, do what Jesus did. 14:35 — The series is revealed as a deeper exploration of spiritual authority. 18:50 — Jesus gives authority but warns His followers not to become enamored with power. 21:44 — The church is called to seek spiritual authority while maintaining hearts like children. 42:43 — Jesus teaches that true greatness comes through serving others. 45:36 — Service and submission are introduced as foundational pathways to spiritual authority. 48:14 — Jesus washes His disciples' feet and demonstrates servant leadership. 1:08:01 — God exalts the humble.
Welcome to Week 1 of our message series, "The Good Life," with Pastor Dave Mudd. In a world obsessed with convenience, ease, and avoiding discomfort at all costs, what if the life Jesus calls us to isn't about comfort at all? Grounded in Matthew 7:13–14, Pastor Dave exposes how the idol of personal comfort secretly undermines our spiritual growth and turns believers into consumers rather than dedicated followers of Christ. Learn why Jesus promised His presence—not a life free of hardship—and how God actively uses suffering, trials, and self-denial to shape us into His image. If you are seeking deeper faith, true Christlikeness, and the strength to walk the narrow road, this message is for you.KEY LESSONS & TAKEAWAYS:• Expose the Spirit of Comfort: Identify how the drive for ease creates spiritual passive habits, and learn how to embrace authentic discipleship.• Redefine "The Good Life": Discover how Jesus' teaching in the Beatitudes turns worldliness upside down by locating true blessing in humility and dependence on God.• Grow Through Refinement: Understand why character, endurance, and spiritual maturity are forged through hardship rather than passive comfort.• Gain an Eternal Perspective: Learn how trials lift our eyes above daily frustrations to anchor our hope in the eternal weight of glory.• Walk Closely with Christ: Experience deeper intimacy with Jesus by understanding that true transformation happens as we walk with Him through the valley.RELATED SCRIPTURES:- Matthew 7:13–14 (The Narrow Gate)- Matthew 5 (The Beatitudes)- Matthew 16:24–25 (Take Up Your Cross)- 2 Corinthians 4:17–18 (Eternal Glory)- Philippians 3:10 (Fellowship of Suffering)
In this week's message, Dr. Stan reminded us of a powerful truth that should shape every part of our walk with Christ: God is for you.Using the life of King Asa in 2 Chronicles 16, we were challenged to examine where our trust truly lies. God promises to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose hearts are fully devoted to Him. For those who walk in faith and obedience, He gives victory—not because of who we are, but because He sought us, saved us, and is for us.If God is for us, we have nothing to fear. Instead of relying on the world's solutions, we are called to depend fully on Him. As we fill our hearts and minds with God's truth rather than the "garbage" of the world, His wisdom begins to shape our thoughts, decisions, and actions.Dr. Stan also challenged us to consider what spiritual maturity really looks like. A disciple isn't someone who remains dependent on "spiritual baby food," but someone who has grown enough to help others learn to "cut their own steak." True disciples make disciples.The message closed with several questions for personal reflection:Are we relying fully on God or looking to the world to solve our problems?Are we using our God-given talents for His glory or for worldly pursuits?Are our relationships drawing us closer to Christ and honoring Him?The Christian life is not about reaching a destination of perfection—it is about continually growing to become more like Jesus. Growing in Christlikeness is a lifelong journey, and we can walk that journey with confidence because God is for us.
August 2, 2026 In this week's sermon, Elder Randy Hall challenges us to make it our duty to prioritize growing in Christlikeness.
At Redeemer, we take seriously Jesus' call to "Go and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." Apprenticeship to Jesus is not a one time decision, but a lifelong journey of following Jesus as our master-teacher. Since the goal of the Christian life is maturity in Jesus, apprenticeship must be deep and holistic, transforming the spiritual, physical, emotional, social, and vocational parts of men and women. Apprenticeship to Jesus is learning to practice the way of Jesus in our homes, relationships, neighborhoods, and jobs. We believe Christlikeness is cultivated as we implement spiritual practices, live in community with other believers, and submit to the Word and the Spirit. We agree with Dallas Willard who said, "that the gospel is opposed to earning, not effort." As we move towards cultivating a life of loving God and people, we trust Christ will mature us into his likeness. https://redeemerwichita.church/
Both gratitude and gentleness flow from a heart that is surrendered to Christ. Gratitude teaches us to trust God's goodness in every circumstance, while gentleness teaches us to reflect His love in the way we interact with others. Together, they help us grow in Christlikeness and become a witness of God's grace to those around us.
1. Knowing Where to Walk2. Knowing Where to Plant3. Knowing What's AheadToday's sermon explored the universal human pursuit of happiness and what God's Word reveals about where true happiness is actually found. Drawing from Psalm 1, we examined how the world searches for happiness in relationships, wealth, status, and circumstances, only to come up empty. God's Word makes clear that lasting happiness, described in the original language as a deep and multiplied blessing, is not found in our surroundings but in our relationship with God and our daily walk with His Word. The sermon challenged us to examine where we are walking, where we are planted, and what lies ahead for those who follow God's path versus those who reject it.Takeaways:- Knowing where to Walk: The happy, blessed life begins with avoiding the influence of the wicked, the path of sinners, and the company of those who mock God. As believers, we are called to be transformed rather than conformed, pursuing integrity and Christlikeness in a world that often pulls us in the opposite direction.- Knowing where to Plant: Like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, the believer who meditates on God's Word day and night and puts it into practice will bear fruit, find strength in seasons of hardship, and experience a joy that is not dependent on circumstances. Our contentment is rooted not in what we have or do not have, but in our high calling as children of God. - Knowing what is Ahead: Psalm 1 ends with a sobering contrast. The righteous are known by God and sustained by Him, while those who reject His plan face judgment. This reminder calls us to share the hope we have with others and to live with eternity in view, grateful that God has made a way for every one of us to be the happy, happy man or woman He describes.Be encouraged to open Psalm 1 again this week and read it slowly. Let it serve as a personal checklist for your walk with the Lord. Ask yourself where you are walking, who you are spending your time with, and how consistently you are feeding on God's Word. The road map to happiness is right there on the page, and it has been there for thousands of years.
What is the gospel—and are you certain you can explain it from Scripture? Rejoice that God saves sinners by grace through faith in Christ alone, apart from works or human effort. Reject every counterfeit message that adds conditions to the free gift of salvation. Trust the Holy Spirit to use the truth of God's Word as you proclaim the good news with confidence. Grow into Christlikeness through faithful obedience, becoming an example that encourages others to believe and mature in Him. At the beginning of today's message, Morgan Arnold showed us a sneak peek of Tetalestai. This 11-video series will be shown to our young people in the upcoming weeks. It's great for adults, too!
At Redeemer, we take seriously Jesus' call to "Go and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." Apprenticeship to Jesus is not a one time decision, but a lifelong journey of following Jesus as our master-teacher. Since the goal of the Christian life is maturity in Jesus, apprenticeship must be deep and holistic, transforming the spiritual, physical, emotional, social, and vocational parts of men and women. Apprenticeship to Jesus is learning to practice the way of Jesus in our homes, relationships, neighborhoods, and jobs. We believe Christlikeness is cultivated as we implement spiritual practices, live in community with other believers, and submit to the Word and the Spirit. We agree with Dallas Willard who said, "that the gospel is opposed to earning, not effort." As we move towards cultivating a life of loving God and people, we trust Christ will mature us into his likeness. https://redeemerwichita.church/
Discover how to live as God's adopted children through biblical holiness and spiritual growth. This powerful message explores 1 Peter 1:13-20, revealing the connection between God's grace and holy living. Learn what it means to prepare your mind for action in Christian life and break free from worldly intoxicants that hinder spiritual growth. Key topics include understanding spiritual adoption, the difference between Christianity and other religions, and how grace empowers obedience. Explore the biblical meaning of holiness as being set apart for God's purposes and reflecting His character as His image bearers. Discover how Christ's blood provides power for transformation and breaks generational patterns of sin. This message addresses common struggles with holy living, generational bondage, and finding motivation for spiritual growth. Learn practical steps for examining your life for family resemblance to your heavenly Father and living as a pilgrim with eternal perspective. Perfect for believers seeking deeper understanding of sanctification, spiritual maturity, and biblical lifestyle transformation. Whether you're struggling with worldly attachments, seeking freedom from family patterns of sin, or wanting to grow in Christlikeness, this biblical teaching provides hope and practical guidance. Discover how God's adoption makes you His child and empowers holy living through Christ's finished work on the cross.
What does modern day liberty - Spirit-filled and led believers look like? Focused on faith or works? Focused on changes of the heart by faith into Christlikeness or changes on the outward flesh. A modern day believer should be faith focused on heart conformity to Christ. Jesus will address and change aspects of our life as we submit to His leading. Liberty does not equal licentiousness. Please reach out to us at EncouragingChristians@gmail.com for prayer, encouragement, discipleship, and faith-based help for growing in Christ.
Maps can be helpful in seeing a larger landscape. They help answer relevant questions such as "Where are we?", "Where am I going?", "What might I expect along the journey?". In this episode of Breaking Bread, Isaac Funk and Arlan Miller have a conversation about six movements along the path of spiritual growth. They give us a map to help us understand what growth in Christ looks like. Show notes: We never fully graduate from these movements, nor are they strictly linear. We visit and revisit them through the course of our lives as we grow in Christlikeness. Movement 1 - Abiding in Jesus: Attachment Formation Movement 2 - Growing in God's Family: Belonging Formation Movement 3 - Training in Christlikeness: Practice Formation Movement 4 - Joining in God's Work: Vocation Formation Movement 5 - Being Formed in the Heart: Inner Formation Movement 6 - Walking in the Spirit: Responsiveness Formation
Most men wear "I handle it myself" like a badge. Scripture calls it starving.In this episode of the Kavod Man of God Podcast, Justin Bohner and Travis Shook get honest about the lone-wolf life — the man who's surrounded by people but actually alone, doing all the right Christian things in isolation while missing the one thing God built him to grow through: real community.Here's the part most men never put words to. The patience, the maturity, the Christlikeness you keep praying for don't show up in a vacuum. God hands them to you on the far side of relationships you can't escape from — the chafing, the inconvenience, the brother who calls you out. Cut yourself off from that, and you cut yourself off from the very grace that would make you the man you're asking God to make you.Inside this conversation:- Why you can be in a room full of people and completely alone- The one-armed arm wrestler: strong in private devotion, emaciated where it actually counts- Why the grace to grow is on the far side of relationships you can't walk away from- The "tiger cubs in the closet": the hidden sin that grows in isolation until you can't kill it alone- Why the man who hides his weaknesses outside the home pays for it later- Where to actually start: your family, then your church, then the people already in front of you- How isolation doesn't just cost you, it costs the generations coming after youYou weren't designed to white-knuckle the Christian life by yourself. You were built to be sharpened by other men into someone who looks more like Christ, and to lead the people God puts around you. That doesn't happen alone."As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another." — Proverbs 27:17Don't be afraid. Understand who you are, then go give that love away. Follow Christ. Take dominion. Die daily. Rule well. Get after it.———If this stirred something in you, don't just consume it. Live it. Then hand it to another man who needs it.Subscribe and walk with us every week as we call men up to who God made them to be.———→ Everything Kavod (articles, resources, programs): kavodfamilyministries.org/links→ Connect: info@kavodfamily.org
As a Christian you will grow in Christlikeness as you submit to the Spirit as He counters the works of the flesh and cultivates the marks of Godliness.
At Redeemer, we take seriously Jesus' call to "Go and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." Apprenticeship to Jesus is not a one time decision, but a lifelong journey of following Jesus as our master-teacher. Since the goal of the Christian life is maturity in Jesus, apprenticeship must be deep and holistic, transforming the spiritual, physical, emotional, social, and vocational parts of men and women. Apprenticeship to Jesus is learning to practice the way of Jesus in our homes, relationships, neighborhoods, and jobs. We believe Christlikeness is cultivated as we implement spiritual practices, live in community with other believers, and submit to the Word and the Spirit. We agree with Dallas Willard who said, "that the gospel is opposed to earning, not effort." As we move towards cultivating a life of loving God and people, we trust Christ will mature us into his likeness. https://redeemerwichita.church/
Summary In this message from 1 Peter 1:1–2, Michael Easley explores the believer's identity as chosen exiles living in a world that is not their home. Peter reminds suffering Christians that their salvation rests entirely on God's initiative, not human effort. Easley focuses on three key prepositional phrases that explain God's saving work: according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, by the sanctifying work of the Spirit, and for obedience to Jesus Christ and sprinkling by His blood. God's foreknowledge is not merely awareness of future choices. It is His loving and sovereign purpose established before the foundation of the world. The same God who chose Christ for the work of redemption has chosen believers according to His gracious plan. The Holy Spirit continues that work through sanctification, gradually transforming believers into the image of Christ. Spiritual growth is not instant, but a lifelong process marked by renewed minds and increasing Christlikeness. Peter's final phrase points to the blood of Christ, which secures salvation and enables faithful obedience. Obedience is not a means of earning God's favor but the natural response of those who love Him. For Christians facing hardship, Peter's message offers deep comfort: you can never overestimate the greatness of your salvation. God's choosing, God's sanctifying work, and Christ's sacrifice guarantee that His people are secure in Him. Takeaways God's foreknowledge is His sovereign and loving choice, not merely His awareness of future human decisions. Salvation begins with God's initiative and is accomplished entirely through His grace. The Holy Spirit sanctifies believers by progressively transforming them into the likeness of Christ. Faith and obedience belong together because genuine love for Christ produces a desire to obey Him. Christians are exiles in this world and must remember that their true home is with Christ. No hardship, suffering, or earthly struggle can diminish the grandeur of the salvation God has provided. To read 1 Peter, click here. Click here for other Michael Easley Sermons.
At Redeemer, we take seriously Jesus' call to "Go and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." Apprenticeship to Jesus is not a one time decision, but a lifelong journey of following Jesus as our master-teacher. Since the goal of the Christian life is maturity in Jesus, apprenticeship must be deep and holistic, transforming the spiritual, physical, emotional, social, and vocational parts of men and women. Apprenticeship to Jesus is learning to practice the way of Jesus in our homes, relationships, neighborhoods, and jobs. We believe Christlikeness is cultivated as we implement spiritual practices, live in community with other believers, and submit to the Word and the Spirit. We agree with Dallas Willard who said, "that the gospel is opposed to earning, not effort." As we move towards cultivating a life of loving God and people, we trust Christ will mature us into his likeness. https://redeemerwichita.church/
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James Bryan Smith has a Things Above conversation with Dr. Keas Keasler about his book, Kingdom Apprenticeship – Dallas Willard’s Formational Theology and Missional Vision A Groundbreaking Analysis of Dallas Willard’s Theology of Spiritual Formation Dallas Willard's formational theology begins with the claim that the aim of God in human history is the formation of a community of loving persons apprenticed to Jesus—and ends with the promise that such apprenticeship prepares us to share in God's governance of the cosmos. This apprenticeship to Jesus is the path to human flourishing, the renewal of the church, and the healing of the world. In Kingdom Apprenticeship, Keas Keasler offers the first comprehensive study of Willard's theology of spiritual formation. He argues that while the three D's of disciples, discipleship, and disciplines made Willard famous, his formational theology is much deeper than that. Willard's unique grammar of transformation is grounded in ordinary life, for it is in our present reality that we are trained to participate in God's eternal purposes. Mining Willard's philosophical works, theological writings, recorded lectures, and unpublished papers, Keasler shows: Willard’s theology serves as a practical curriculum for spiritual growth, offering a remedy for the character crisis we see in the church and in society. Apprenticeship to Jesus is both for growth in Christlikeness and preparation for reigning with God in the fullness of his kingdom. Spiritual formation is not secondary or supplementary to God's mission; it is its very strategy. Against the drift of modern theology into abstraction, Willard calls the church back to a clinical theology—one aimed at the transformation of character through an interactive life with God. Formation and mission, contemplation and action, inner renewal and outward vocation—all are inseparably linked in Willard's vision. Kingdom Apprenticeship offers a fresh and urgent call: to recover apprenticeship to Jesus as the heart of the Christian life—and the hope of the world. Interested in donating to the Things Above Podcast? Donate here! Recent Episodes: 1. Formation Writers Guild 2. Conversation with Liz Hall and Kelly Kapic 3. No Condemnation 4. Spiritual World 5. Conversation with Dr. Kelly Flanagan The post Conversation with Keas Keasler appeared first on Apprentice Institute.
God has royally elected you and he did that with all His heart and soul! -------- Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible. Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.